By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Beef Center’s Second Annual Genetic Symposium, held on December 16-17 at Iowa State University, will focus on improving female reproductive efficiency in cattle herds.
Following the success of last year’s event, which centered on bulls, this year’s symposium shifts attention to the female’s role in enhancing herd genetics and production.
Iowa State University cow-calf specialist Randie Culbertson highlights the importance of reproduction in cow-calf operations. “Reproduction is the most economically significant trait of a cow-calf operation,” she said. “To improve genetics, you must first ensure successful pregnancies.”
The event will combine hands-on demonstrations with classroom sessions led by experts, including reproductive physiologists, economists, and producers. Key topics will cover advanced reproductive technologies and best practices for breeding and genetic selection.
The symposium will address essential subjects, such as current reproductive technologies, embryo transfer, in vitro fertilization, and artificial insemination (AI) protocols.
Economic factors in replacement heifers and maternal indexes will also be discussed, providing cattle producers with strategies to enhance the efficiency of their operations.
Participants can enjoy an evening of interactive activities on the first night, featuring a prime rib dinner and a mock female auction, aimed at helping attendees evaluate if their breeding goals align with production needs and local environments.
The symposium begins at noon on Monday, December 16, and concludes at noon on Tuesday, December 17, at the ISU Hansen Agriculture Student Learning Center in Ames.
Registration costs $75 per person and includes meals, refreshments, and event materials. The registration deadline is December 11, and a block of hotel rooms is available at a discounted rate until December 15.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Livestock